QuestionHi- I just bought an old XT550 as a project. The engine is in good shape, just needs to be woken up from a long slumber in a barn (about 4 years) without being winterized. I cleaned the carb jets/needles, installed new air filtration, and fresh gas. The interior of the tank is in need of cleaning and I haven't gotten to looking at the plug or the points yet.
When I fire it up using ether it idles rough and backfires until it exhausts the ether, then dies. I checked and the float bowl is full. Aside from the plug, points, and tank interior, any idea as to why it won't run on gas? Thanks- Mike
AnswerHi Mike.
Ressurection of a long-sleeping bike is a tough process;
1) The carbs need complete and thorough deep detail cleaning.
2) The fuel lines need replacing.
4) The tank needs to be resealed to prevent recontamination of the carbs (this is why the fuel lines get replaced as well).
5) The engine needs to be flushed and the oil, oil filter and air filter all need to be changed.
My guess is that the needles are clogged still and preventing fuel from leaving the float bowls.
Start with that and let me know what you find.
Good luck and ride safe.
FALCON
